a technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce computer-generated images of soft tissue. MRI scans show brain anatomy.

MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)

fMRI (fuctional MRI)

the oldest part and central core of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skill; the brainstem is responsible for automatic survival functions.

brainstem

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the base of the brainstem; controls heartbeat and breathing.

medulla

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the brain's sensory switchboard, located on top of the brainstem; it directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.

thalamus

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a nerve network that travels through the brainstem and plays an important role in controlling arousal/

reticular formation

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the “little brain” at the rear of the brain-stem; functions include processing sensory input and coordinating movement-output and balance.

cerebellum

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neural system (including the hippocampus, amygdala, and hypothalamus) located below cerebral hemispheres; associated with emotions and drives.

limbic system

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two lima-bean-sized neural clusters in the limbic system; linked to emotion.

amygdala

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a neural structure lying below (hypo) the thalamus; it directs several maintenance activities (eating, drinking, body temperature), helps govern the endocrine system via the pituitary gland, and is linked to emotion and reward.

hypothalamus

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cells in the nervous system that support, nourish, and protect neurons; they may also play a role in learning and thinking.

glial cells (glia)

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portion of the cerebral cortex lying just behind the forehead; involved in speaking and muscle movements and in making plans and judgments.

frontal lobes

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portion of the cerebral cortex lying at the top of the head and toward the rear; receives sensory input for touch and body position.

parietal lobes

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portion of the cerebral cortex ling at the back of the head; includes areas that receive information from the visual fields.

occipital lobes

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portion of the cerebral cortex lying roughly above the ears; includes the auditory areas, each receiving information primarily from the opposite ear.

temporal lobes

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area at the front of the parietal lobes that registers and processes body touch and movement sensations.

sensory cortex

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areas of the cerebral cortex that are not involved in primary motor or sensory functions; rather, they are involved in higher mental functions such as learning, remembering, thinking, and speaking.

association areas

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the brain's ability to change, especially during childhood, by reorganizing after damage or by building new pathways based on experience.

plasticity

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the formation of new neurons.

neurogenesis

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the large band of neural fibers connecting the two brain hemispheres and carrying messages between them.

corpus callosum

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a condition resulting from surgery that isolates the brain's two hemispheres by cutting the fibers (mainly those of the corpus callosum) connecting them.